Me and Poverty

Can you build a successful business without leaving your small town? Luis Chico, founder of JunkBros Solutions, is proving that you don’t need to move to a big city to build a big dream.In this episode of Me and Poverty, Joseph sits down with Luis to discuss the raw reality of starting with nothing. Luis opens up about the discipline of poverty, why he brought his brother on as a 50/50 partner, and how he turned a borrowed trailer into a thriving waste disposal company serving the tri-state area.If you are a young person with a "fire in your gut" but no direction, this episode is your roadmap.In this episode, we cover:The transition from "side hustle" (selling snacks and vending machines) to a legitimate corporation.Why "discipline" is the greatest asset an entrepreneur can own.The reality of 36-hour work shifts and the "boots on the ground" grind.Luis’s vision for the beautification of Eastern Kentucky.Advice for high schoolers: The $1,000 JunkBros Scholarship for young entrepreneurs.A Special Thanks to Our Sponsors:Season Sponsor: Appalachia Reach Out– Thank you for your continued support in helping us tell stories that break barriers and build bridges. You can support them at their website here: https://www.appalachiareachout.com/Episode Sponsor: Martin County Kentucky Farm Bureau Insurance – We appreciate your partnership in making this conversation with Luis Chico possible.Connect with Luis & JunkBros Solutions:Website: https://www.junkbrossolutions.com/?fbclid=IwY2xjawQETr5leHRuA2FlbQIxMABicmlkETJLYTBiOUVsbk11Qml2ZU5Dc3J0YwZhcHBfaWQQMjIyMDM5MTc4ODIwMDg5MgABHiOnSWs5egoWyX0pXK3onL2XllvFJFuFgwHAoNgfTcIKuEg-VQKhc3ajMu9t_aem_1aMOur1ofSHEQp3wGaLV6g

In this episode of Me and Poverty, Joseph Little sits down with Brady Kelly, Area Director of Young Life Eastern Kentucky, to talk about what it really looks like to reach students who are disconnected, disinterested, or overlooked.Young Life’s mission is simple but powerful: introduce adolescents to Jesus Christ and help them grow in their faith—by going where kids already are, building real relationships, and creating safe spaces for them to just be kids.Brady shares:-Why relational ministry matters more than flashy programs-How Young Life reaches students who would never walk into a church-The role trusted adults play in breaking cycles of poverty, trauma, and isolation-What gives him hope for Gen Z and Gen AlphaThis conversation is for:-Youth workers-Educators-Pastors and ministry leaders-Parents and caregivers-Anyone who wants to be the someone for the next generation🔗 Learn more about Young Life Eastern Kentucky:https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100064438226726Donate to their cause here: https://giving.younglife.org/s/?GiftType=Area&Name=easternkentucky&Amount=100.00&Frequency=Monthly&AppealCodeId=70141000000tvBDAAY&BypassDesignationPage=false&MissionUnitId=a2s6e000001NaHzAAK&MissionUnitName=Eastern%20Kentucky&ClassCodeId=a2j41000000Nj93AAC&ClassCodeName=Operating🔗 Support our season sponsor Appalachia Reach Out here:https://www.appalachiareachout.com/🤝 Interested in working with Me and Poverty or booking Joseph Little to speak?https://www.joelittleinspires.com/💬 QUESTION:Who was a trusted adult in your life growing up—or who are you being that person for today? Drop it in the comments.And remember — keep sharing stories.#MeAndPoverty #BeTheSomeone #YoungLife #EasternKentucky #YouthMinistry #TrustedAdults #FaithAndYouth #BreakingCycles #RelationalMinistry

Violence prevention doesn’t start with superheroes — it starts with ordinary people choosing to act.In this episode of Me and Poverty, we sit down to talk about Green Dot, a powerful, evidence-based violence prevention strategy that empowers everyday people to recognize harmful situations and safely intervene before things escalate.Green Dot is about awareness, responsibility, and community — and how small actions, when repeated, can create real cultural change in schools, workplaces, and communities.If you work with youth, serve in education, ministry, social services, or simply care about creating safer spaces, this conversation matters.🔗 Support ARO here:https://www.appalachiareachout.com/🤝 Interested in working with Me and Poverty or scheduling Joe to speak?⚡️ https://www.joelittleinspires.com/QUESTION — Have a question? Drop it in the comments!👍 If this episode helped you, please like, subscribe, and share it with someone who needs to hear it.And remember — keep sharing stories.

You might know Joey Stepp from his viral magic videos, but his real journey from Eastern Kentucky is even more incredible. In this episode of Me and Poverty, Joey shares how he went from a kid who struggled in school to a D1 football captain and a voice of hope for the next generation.🔗 Support ARO here: https://www.appalachiareachout.com/🤝 Interested in working with Me and Poverty or scheduling Joe to speak?⚡️ https://www.joelittleinspires.com/QUESTION - Have a question? Drop it in the comments!#meandpoverty #JoeyStepp #MeAndPoverty #EasternKentucky #Inspiration #SuccessStory #OvercomingPoverty #Grit #AppalachiaReachOut

In this episode, Joe sits down with a guest—a devoted educator and coach from Appalachia—to explore firsthand what it means to serve young people in the face of hardship. The guest reflects on moving from nursing into teaching, the everyday struggles today’s youth encounter, and how faith shapes every coaching moment. They highlight the power of community support, unpack the spiritual dimensions of poverty, and weave in personal tales of resilience and purpose that inspire hope amid adversity.

In this conversation, Joe and his newfound friend explore themes of overcoming adversity, the impact of personal tragedy, and the importance of faith and resilience. They share journeys of experiencing poverty and a life-altering car accident to becoming a teacher and mentor for youth. They emphasize the significance of personal connections, the lessons learned from challenges, and the power of hope in transforming lives. The discussion highlights the role of faith in navigating life's difficulties and the importance of sharing one's story to inspire others.

In this conversation, Joe’s guest shares his journey from growing up in poverty in Turkey Creek, Kentucky, to becoming the executive director of Appalachia Reach Out. He discusses the importance of community, faith, and relationships in overcoming poverty, as well as the misconceptions surrounding it. They also emphasize the need for long-term commitment in community service and the impact of prayer and engagement in transforming lives.

In this episode, Joe, a former Financial Aid Director, and an old friend discuss the complexities of financial aid, particularly the FAFSA process, and its impact on students from low-income backgrounds. They explore the misconceptions surrounding financial aid, the role of KHEAA in providing scholarships, and the importance of community support in helping students navigate their educational journeys. The conversation also touches on the challenges faced by first-generation college students and the significance of building relationships in education.

In this episode, Joe and a friend discuss their personal experiences with poverty, the role of music and sports in shaping their identities, and the importance of education as a pathway out of poverty. They share insights on faith, the challenges faced by youth in poverty, and the significance of building trust with at-risk youth. The conversation also touches on humorous anecdotes from their childhood and the impact of community support in overcoming adversity.

About: In this conversation, Joe and his guest explore the profound impact of family, faith, and community on personal growth and overcoming poverty. They discuss the importance of mentorship, the role of spiritual life coordination, and the power of encouragement in transforming lives. The dialogue emphasizes the significance of understanding poverty, both financial and spiritual, and how love and support can create lasting change. Through personal anecdotes and insights, they highlight the necessity of community and the ripple effect of kindness in addressing life's challenges.

Want to learn what program can help students escape poverty and find their version of success? Watch on!!Interested in working with Me and Poverty or scheduling Joe to speak?⚡️https://www.joelittleinspires.comAbout: In this episode, a former teacher shares her insights on overcoming poverty through education and leadership programs like JAG. She discusses her personal experiences, the importance of mindset, and the transformative power of education in breaking barriers. The conversation highlights the skills taught in JAG, the significance of competitiveness, and the success stories of students who have thrived despite their challenging backgrounds. In this conversation, we discuss the transformative power of education, the importance of passion in teaching, and innovative approaches like project-based learning. Then, we reflect on personal success stories, the significance of team-building activities, and the need to redefine success for young people. The conversation also touches on future aspirations for JAG Kentucky and the impact of community service.

How can a scarcity mindset hinder personal growth and fulfillment? Watch to find out!!🎯 Use this link to reserve your copy of my upcoming book, Me and Poverty: https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/meandpoverty/me-and-povertyInterested in working with Me and Poverty or scheduling Joe to speak?⚡️ https://www.joelittleinspires.com/About:In this conversation, our guest shares his transformative journey from battling alcoholism and experiencing various forms of poverty to finding redemption and purpose. He discusses the importance of understanding poverty beyond financial aspects, emphasizing mental and spiritual poverty. Highlighting the role of education, the impact of a scarcity mindset, and the significance of community and support in recovery. He also reflects on his experiences as a family support specialist, helping others navigate their struggles and reconcile with loved ones. Ultimately, the conversation centers on faith, personal growth, and the power of Christ in overcoming life's challenges.

Discover how faith, mentorship, and education can heal past struggles rooted in poverty! 🎯 Use this link to reserve your copy of my upcoming book, Me and Poverty: https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/meandpoverty/me-and-poverty Interested in working with Me and Poverty or scheduling Joe to speak? ⚡️ https://www.joelittleinspires.com/ About: In this episode, Joe Little interviews a middle school teacher from Kentucky who shares his journey of overcoming poverty while helping others. This teacher discusses his upbringing, the struggles faced by his family, and the inspiration that drove him to seek a better life. He emphasizes the importance of mentorship, education, and faith in transforming lives and encourages listeners to be a source of support for those in need.

Explore how Appalachians use faith, teaching, and inspiration to leave a lasting legacy!!🎯 Use this link to reserve your copy of my upcoming book, Me and Poverty: https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/meandpoverty/me-and-poverty🚗 Visit the Fluty Lick Homestead channel: UC7d7fFKrG89gARtDFlmWvPgInterested in working with Me and Poverty or scheduling Joe to speak?⚡️ https://www.joelittleinspires.com/About:Joseph interviews a high school carpentry instructor and YouTube creator known for his authentic content that showcases his life and skills. They discuss his journey into YouTube, the importance of faith, the role of teaching in shaping young lives, and the significance of hands-on skills in today's world.

Know someone struggling with poverty who could benefit from STEM engagement or mentorship? Listen in!! 🎯 Use this link to reserve your copy of my upcoming book, Me and Poverty: https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/meandpoverty/me-and-poverty In this episode, Joe Little interviews a Director of Appalachian Engagement, who shares her journey from growing up in Floyd County, Kentucky, to becoming a mentor and advocate for youth in her community. They discuss the challenges of poverty, the importance of mentorship, and the role of education in breaking the cycle of poverty.